New research from Compare the Market has revealed that Australia is leading the global fight against vaping.
- Australia scored 7.50 out of 10, finishing ahead of India, Vietnam and Portugal (equal second), Bangladesh, Argentina and Mexico.
- Australia had the highest quitting interest with 27.75 searches per 100,000 of the population.
- Australia scored well for its strict regulations, including prescription-only access, severe penalties for illegal sales, and full advertising bans.
- France, Ireland and the USA were the bottom three countries in the index.
Evidence on the health impacts of vapes, also referred to as e-cigarettes, is growing. While the World Health Organization acknowledges that long-term health effects are not fully known, there is evidence that e-cigarettes produce toxic substances linked to cancer and increased risk of heart and lung disorders.1
The health insurance comparison experts at Compare the Market created a Vaping Reduction Index to identify which countries were doing the most to reduce vaping in their populations. It analysed 55 countries on vaping prevalence, quitting interest, regulatory strictness, and tax measures, then assigned each a score out of 10 to rank the index.
Compare the Market’s General Manager of Health, Steven Spicer, said it was pleasing that several countries are leading the charge in reducing vaping.
“The health risks of vaping are still emerging, but what we do know is concerning, meaning prevention of these health risks is key,” he said. “That’s why countries like Australia, India, Vietnam and Portugal are leading the charge with tough regulations.
“Vaping might seem less harmful than smoking, but the reality is we don’t yet know the full long-term effects. Countries that act now, through bans, taxes, and education, are investing in healthier futures for their population.”
Spicer added that making informed health choices is more important than ever, especially as concerns around vaping continue to grow.
“Health insurance providers are already factoring in lifestyle risks like smoking and vaping,” he said. “Reducing vaping prevalence isn’t just good for public health, but it can also help keep future healthcare costs down.”
For full data, assets and methodology, please visit: https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/health-insurance/features/vaping-reduction-index/
For interviews and more information, please contact:
James McCay | +61 450 930 374 | [email protected]
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